zaau2 gung1 zok3找工作
Jyutpingzaau2 gung1 zok3
Yalejáau gūng jok
Definition
To look for a job.
colloquialwork
How it's used
Cantonese speakers almost exclusively use 搵工 instead of the formal 找工作. The verb 搵 carries a sense of active searching or hunting, making it the standard choice for professional and casual contexts alike. It is common to attach the aspect marker 緊 to indicate the ongoing process of searching.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using 找 in spoken Cantonese, as it sounds distinctly like Mandarin. Always use 搵 to sound natural in a Hong Kong context.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
